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Glossary
AJRAK:
Ajrak is a symbol of Sindni culture. It has been in Sindh since the era of the Moenjodaro Civilization. The correct pronunciation in Sindhi Language is Ajrak-u or Ajrak. Plant dyes in indigo, maroon and yellow are predominantly used in the geometric patterns of Ajrak. Hyderabad and Matiari are the historically famous places for manufacturing of Ajraks. From birth to marriage until death Ajrak celebrates all significant events of the life cycle. It is used as a turban, a shawl, spread as a bed sheet or table cloth and when it is worn out it is recycled as a hammock for a baby or cover for bullock carts. The continuity of Ajrak has persisted over centuries only because it is an integral part of Sindhi culture.
RALLI:
Ralli is another icon of Sindhi heritage and is derived from the word Rallana meaning to mix or connect. Rallis are commonly used as a covering for sleeping cots floor covering or bed spreads. Rallis are often given as gifts to friends and visitors. In villages Rallis form an important part of a girls dowry. The number of patterns used on a Ralli quilt seem to be almost endless as there is much individual expression and spontaneity in color within the traditional patterns. The three basic style of rallies are, Patchwork, Applique, Embroidered. Embellishments like mirrors, tassels and shells are also used to adorn Rallis.
KHES:
Khes is a traditional craft of Khairpur. Evolved centuries agoto meet the need for a cotton lanket it was an important item of export during the Mughal period. Presently Khes are used throughout Pakistan as bed covers, curtains, table cloths, floor coverings and chaadars . Best know Khes come from Gumbhat, Nasarpur and Sukkur.
SUSSI:
Sussi is the general name given to multicolored, striped cotton cloth. The pattern was evolved centuries ago. Presently Gumbat and Tando Mohammad Khan in Sindh are the leading production centres for Sussi. Traditionally Sussi cloth has bean used to tailor shalwars for Sindhi women but now it is also used for shirts and curtains. A large number of colors and patterns are used in weaving Sussi cloth. In resent times there has been a trend away from pure cotton Sussi to silk and synthetic blends as well.
KHADDAR:
Khaddar or Khadi is the simplest cotton wear and is described generally as coarse cloth. Until recently Khaddar was among the regions major exports to Central Asia. Khaddar comes in a wide range of thickness, texture and design and is marketed in yardage for upholstery drapery, bed covers, quilts and garments.
CHUNNRI:
The term Chunnri means "gathering into fine pleats". Small sections of the fabric are individually tied with string in an orderly fashion. The fabric, usually silk or cotton is thdyed in a hot bath, air dried and the string then removed to reveal an intricate and beautiful pattern of white dots.
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